Among the distractions that invade our space via the Internet and media are commercials that persuade us to buy fragrance products. When you think of fragrance what comes to mind? Perhaps, you think of sexy perfume that drives your man wild. Maybe you want sexy, smooth and baby young skin with talcum powder. Maybe you want a rugged scent that attracts a lovely lady for a date.
One factor that motivates people to improve self-esteem and appeal is romantic intimacy. What happens when the products used for intimacy enhancement are toxic and repel the opposite sex?
According to the National Academy of Science as of 1999 more than 15% of the population suffers from fragrance and chemical sensitivity and cannot tolerate the exposure. That number is steadily rising. Environmental health awareness writer Andrea DesJardins states that the FDA does not regulate the fragrance industry. Andrea DesJardins also states that of the 5,000 different chemicals less than 20% have been tested for toxicity levels. Because there is no scrutiny thousands of chemicals are used to manufacture fragrances. The result is a toxic witch’s brew.
One of the detriments of using fragrance is that it’s difficult to stop the usage. According to Anne Cheyne, contributing writer for the Camp Hill Medical Centre in Nova Scotia, Canada, the chemicals in the fragrance product desensitize the nerves and cells. What this means is that as a person uses the product their nerves experience a dull-like sensation and become somewhat numb to the chemicals. When one is dowsed in fragrance the scent weakens and the user’s senses diminish. Those who don’t wear fragrance and are sensitive will immediately detect the scent. This would explain why fragrance users find it strange when a sensitive person is repelled by it.
When watching commercials depicting sexy women covering their bodies with a beautifying product your first thought is that your skin will feel just as young. You’ll stop the wrinkles. Your new sensual feminine hair will glow with sexy highlights. Everlasting youthful beauty is the biggest motivation that keeps cosmetics sales on the rise.
Look at the listed ingredients. Usually you’ll see a long paragraph, indicating that this product you’re using is loaded with ingredients. Chances are those ingredients are toxic, especially the ones you cannot pronounce. There’s a well-known expression that many health-oriented people live by when buying products. That expression is “if in doubt, do without”. This simply means that if you don’t understand the ingredient you should avoid it. According to Anne Cheyne one of the biggest problems is that many products claim to be “unscented” and “fragrance-free”. Considering that this really isn’t the case this can confuse consumers. While the product may appear to be fragrance-free the product is still scented and contains potentially toxic chemicals to the sensitive user. Scented products are not merely harmful to the consumer. They're harmful to the environment as well.
According to the Fragrance Products Information Network fragrances are volatile compounds, which add to both indoor and outdoor air pollution. Synthetic musk compounds are persistent in the environment and contaminate waterways and aquatic wildlife. The Environmental Health Network states that the compounds found in fragrance and various mainstream commercial products are derived from petro-chemicals, which are essentially fossil fuels. When using these chemical and fragrance products it's akin to putting gasoline on your skin and in your air. It’s time for the million-dollar question.
What’s the solution to this toxic problem? Feeling appealing and having a high self-esteem is important. It’s a natural instinct and should be nurtured in a non-toxic earth-friendly manner. Hygiene and cleanliness are basic needs. In truth you don’t need a dozen products for cleanliness. This is a fallacy. Try a natural organic all-purpose cleaning product with a subtle aroma of pine, spruce, and fir that you can also use for bathing; Dr. Bronner’s Sal Suds. It’s very effective and efficient. My husband and I have used it for many years for all our cleaning needs and it’s helped us to save hundreds of dollars and our health. It’s important to vote with your wallet shopping in a natural food store. If you want stylish lively hair natural product companies like Aveda, Aubrey Organics, and Paul Penders have wonderful moisturizing products. These companies exude compassion and integrity for personal health and that of the planet and animals as well. The herbal aromas are wonderful and a small amount is long lasting. If it’s highlights you want I would suggest consulting with an Aveda hairdresser. If dry skin plagues you massage it with creamy moisturizing Aubrey Organics Rosa Mosqueta Hand and Body Lotion. Aveda colorful makeup is beautiful and aromatic. When you want to smell appealing and feel rejuvenated organic essential oils like geranium and sandalwood are wonderful. There’s one for every mood. When searching for cosmetics look for familiar ingredients like geranium, lavender, sandalwood, and rose essential oils without the added chemicals. For every beauty need there’s an effective organic plant-derived product that will enliven your skin and make you feel wonderful. Your local natural food store has an array of products to try. The right one will appeal to you. All you need is an openness to learn. The sky’s the limit and your health is worth it!
D.A. Colvin is a natural living writer and consultant. She and her husband, Bryan, share their wisdom and experience from their own personal journey with those who are ready to simplify and detoxify their life. For more information please visit their web site at: http://www.bodyearthself.com.
